Junior rugby captain role - any advice?

Simon JonesCoach, England

Andy

Tough question - how do you teach a child to become a leader? Not overnight for sure!

I suggest that you ask him what he thinks a good team leader should be and how he would want a captain to behave towards him. In this way, you can coax him to think more about the role and how he needs to lead.

If suitable could you get a few of the players to sit with him and you to discuss what makes a good leader? Could be interesting but will need careful managing.

Perhaps other coaches will contribute some thoughts on this?

Simon

Rugby CoachCoach

It is al ways a most difficult question and i am sure that in the past many mistakes have been made in the wrong selection at ALL levels. Coaching in a small Independant school where the problem of recruiting players is also a problem (one I succeed In, convincing Parents is the harder one) I use one of the sessions to talk about the ethos of rugby, leadership etc. At a follow up session I asked the whole Club to Nominate next sessions captain. From this I ask the nominations if they are comfortable with their nomination ( some turn it down!) from this all candidates do a presentation in front of the team and answer questions from them. It is amazing how sophisticated this can become. This works for me and as proven to be successful. NEVER underestimate Children.

ERIC STOKES

Rugby CoachCoach

Hi Andy,

you say he needs to "learn how to lead the team" , can you list down what "leading the team" means from your perspective?